Tyler Gibson
Following the cataclysmic Armageddon Game event, IDW Publishing is broadening its horizons with the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles universe. Not only are they rebooting the main monthly book, but they’re also launching several fresh series. The newest addition to this lineup is TMNT: Mutant Nation, an anthology deeply rooted in the IDW TMNT world.
The core concept of Mutant Nation is straightforward yet intriguing. The series shines a spotlight on individual characters through the lens of beloved creators. This approach paves the way for more in-depth, character-driven narratives than the group-centric monthly comic.
Mutant Nation #1 kicks off with a bang, featuring two adrenaline-fueled comics. The primary story, crafted by The Last Ronin writer Tom Waltz and artist Vincenzo Federici, revolves around Raphael. He’s depicted as a heroic wanderer traversing the American Southwest. After a stint as a bouncer reminiscent of Patrick Swayze in Roadhouse, Raphael encounters a familiar face who ropes him into a risky mission.
The secondary story by Erik Burnham and artist Mateus Santolouco is equally riveting. It centers on Casey Jones, who is currently working for the Foot Clan in Japan. His personal code of honor clashes with clan leader Karai, who appears to be succumbing to corruption. This conflict resonates with the inaugural TMNT issue, hinting at a deeper connection to be explored in future installments.
TMNT: Mutant Nation #1: A Welcome Addition
Your appreciation for TMNT: Mutant Nation #1 will largely depend on your affinity for the current IDW universe. Personally, I’m thoroughly enjoying it, despite the occasional curveball thrown by the alterations to the Ninja Turtles universe I grew up with. Fortunately, these changes are more intriguing than off-putting, sparking curiosity rather than confusion. For example, the first story mentions Donatello studying magic, a plot twist I hadn’t encountered in my previous readings of IDW TMNT comics.
Despite this minor caveat, this comic is a stellar anthology that perfectly encapsulates what this rendition of the Turtles is all about. TMNT: Mutant Nation offers two compelling stories complemented by stunning artwork, and I’m eagerly anticipating the next issue.
Grade: 5/5
TMNT: Mutant Nation #1 will be available in comic shops everywhere from September 18, 2024.
